Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that the EU White Paper opens up new opportunities for Ukraine's integration into European security policy. This became known after a meeting with European Commissioner Andrius Kubilius.
The King of Great Britain and the Prince of Wales laid wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey. Veterans, politicians and members of the royal family attended the ceremony.
During the day, 117 combat clashes took place on the front. The most attacks, 41, were recorded in the Pokrovsk direction, where fierce battles are ongoing.
EU countries are considering redirecting €400 billion from regional aid funds to the defense industry. The funds will go to bomb shelters, military-civilian technologies and military infrastructure.
European diplomats consider the agreement with the USA a priority and call for a pause in decisions regarding the USA. They propose waiting for the results of the NATO summit in The Hague.
On May 8, the public organization "Zemliachky" (Countrywomen) together with the EVA store chain are launching the charity campaign "Mission — Life". Its goal is to raise 4 million hryvnias to provide equipment for 80 female combat medics working in the hottest spots of the front.
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Putin, emphasizing the strength of Sino-Russian relations. They discussed protecting the interests of both countries and reforming global governance.
The United States has announced plans to mass-produce the latest B61-13 thermonuclear bombs as early as the end of May 2025. The development is ahead of schedule due to the use of B61-12 developments.
The new German Chancellor has stated that there is no question of stationing Bundeswehr soldiers in Ukraine. He also noted that a peace agreement is still a long way off.
Boeing plans to deliver the new Air Force One aircraft by 2027, although there are delays due to labor shortages and supplier issues. The project is five years behind schedule.
Germany provides Ukraine with a new military aid package, including missiles for the IRIS-T air defense system, ammunition for Leopard 2, drones, and armored vehicles. Engineering equipment and artillery shells have also been handed over.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius aims to increase the country's annual defense budget to over 60 billion euros, starting in 2025. In 2024, Germany's regular defense budget amounted to 52 billion euros.
Friedrich Merz announced a visit to Ukraine and stressed the need for coordination of support between Berlin and Paris. He also emphasized the key role of the United States in ending the war.
World leaders call on India and Pakistan for peace after missile strikes and downed aircraft. The US, NATO, the UN and China have expressed concern about the escalation.
A study has shown that British companies exported thousands of military goods to Israel despite the suspension of export licenses.
Friedrich Merz has been elected Chancellor of Germany. The NATO Secretary General and EU leaders congratulated him, emphasizing the importance of leadership for European security and cooperation between countries.
The Kremlin is using myths about World War II to justify the conflict with the West. They are consolidating around the idea that the West seeks to destroy the Russian Federation.
A survey showed that 41-55% of Europeans and 45% of Americans consider World War III likely in the next 5-10 years. The main reason cited is tension in relations with Russia.
Former US Vice President Mike Pence stated that Putin seeks to seize the entire Ukraine and is dragging out the peace process. He also criticized Trump for his inconsistent support of Ukraine.
Dick Schoof emphasized that the threat from Russia is becoming increasingly hybrid. Europe must invest in its own security, especially against the backdrop of Ukraine's struggle for existence.
The deployment of European forces in Ukraine without the US may lead to the collapse of NATO, according to Wolfgang Ischinger. The lack of US support will give Russia a chance for provocations.
Contrary to Reuters reports, the Greek government has stated that it is not considering supplying Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine joined the march in Great Britain on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe. NATO soldiers participated in the parade, and the royal family watched the event.
Ukraine's allies are discussing the transfer of additional Patriot air defense systems by June. Among the potential suppliers are the USA and Greece, who are striving to reach an agreement before the NATO summit.
Julie Davis has started working at the U. S. Embassy in Kyiv. Her mission is to implement Trump's policy aimed at ending the war and establishing peace in Ukraine.
Boris Pistorius will retain the post of Defence Minister in the new German government. Other appointments to the coalition between Friedrich Merz's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) have also been made.
George Simion, a well-known nationalist and Eurosceptic, promises to stop aid to Ukraine and appoint pro-Russian Prime Minister Călin Georgescu. In the second round, he will compete with Nicușor Dan.
German military officials are concerned about the US Ambassador to NATO's demands to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. He threatens that Trump will not attend the summit if the demands are not met.
Ukraine seeks to obtain security guarantees from the United States to prevent future attacks by Russia. Models with a foreign contingent and support, as in Israel, are being considered.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has proposed that alliance members increase defense spending to 3. 5% of GDP. An additional 1.5% will go to broader security-related expenses.